Name: Easy Bubble and Squeak Recipe for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cups chopped cooked cabbage; 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made); 1 cup chopped cooked vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, Brussels sprouts); Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This easy Bubble and Squeak recipe is the perfect way to give new life to leftover mashed potatoes and vegetables. With a crispy golden crust, soft center, and loads of flavor, it’s a comforting side dish I can whip up in just 30 minutes. Whether I’m serving it for dinner, brunch, or a lazy weekend lunch, this recipe always satisfies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe makes use of ingredients I already have on hand, especially leftovers. It’s fast, budget-friendly, and super customizable. The crispy bits from the skillet give it an irresistible texture, and I can easily tweak it based on what’s in the fridge. It’s comfort food at its best—hearty, rustic, and unfussy. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and perfect for reducing food waste.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cups chopped cooked cabbage
2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
1 cup chopped cooked vegetables (like carrots, peas, or Brussels sprouts)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by heating the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Then I sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
Next, I stir in the cooked cabbage and other chopped vegetables and let them cook for another 2–3 minutes.
I mix in the mashed potatoes and press everything down evenly into the skillet.
I let it cook without stirring for 8–10 minutes until the bottom turns golden and crispy.
Then I flip it in sections or turn it entirely to crisp the other side, letting it cook for another 5–7 minutes.
Finally, I season it with salt and pepper and serve it hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist or a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. When I’m feeling fancy, I top it with a poached egg or drizzle some hot sauce for a spicy kick. Leftover roasted veggies like sweet potato or parsnips also blend in wonderfully. If I want smaller portions, I shape them into patties—it helps with flipping and makes them perfect for brunch.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either warm them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness or use the oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes. I avoid microwaving, as it softens the crispy texture too much.

FAQs

What is bubble and squeak?

Bubble and squeak is a traditional British dish made from leftover vegetables and mashed potatoes, typically pan-fried until crispy. The name comes from the bubbling and squeaking sounds it makes while cooking.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of leftovers?

Yes, I sometimes cook fresh cabbage, carrots, or Brussels sprouts just for this recipe. I steam or sauté them first to soften them before mixing into the potatoes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used (especially any add-ins) don’t contain gluten.

Can I bake this instead of frying?

I can, but I won’t get the same crispiness. I bake it in a greased dish at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes until the top is golden.

What other vegetables work well in this dish?

Any cooked vegetables I have on hand can work. I’ve used parsnips, leeks, spinach, and even roasted sweet potatoes with great results.

Conclusion

Bubble and Squeak is one of my favorite ways to turn leftovers into something truly special. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor and texture. Whether I serve it as a side or let it shine as the main event, it always hits the spot—and I love how it makes the most out of what I already have.